From Birth of a Nation to Cold Mountain, hundreds of directors, actors, and screenwriters have used the Civil War to create compelling cinema. However, each generation of moviemakers has resolved the tug of war between entertainment value and historical accuracy differently. Historian Brian Steel Wills takes readers on a journey through the portrayal of the war in film, exploring what Hollywood got right and wrong, how the films influenced each other, and, ultimately, how the movies reflect America's changing understandings of the conflict and of the nation.

"This book is a must-read for those with a penchant for Civil War movies and will be invaluable to instructors wishing to screen films in class. But beware, after reading this book you will likely find yourself in search of some of these titles—and you will no doubt watch with Wills's commentary running through your head." - Civil War History

"This book is a highly enjoyable read. Brian Wills has a knack with a pen (or keyboard). His knowledge of Civil War film is amazing. If the reader is interested in Civil War films, I highly recommend this volume." - Civil War News

"A great read." - Post Library

"Brian S. Wills is a fine scholar and writer. . . . Film and Civil War buffs will enjoy this book as will baby boomers." - America's Civil War

"Generally, books about Hollywood's treatment of history have been written for either academicians or film buffs, but seldom both. Wills has bridged the gap with his latest work. . . . For anyone interested in starting their own Civil War film library, this book is a must-own." - Blue & Gray Magazine